We tested Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo – here’s our take

We all know that browsing products online isn’t the same as taking them for a test spin, so we’re here to help. In our series of in-depth reviews, our editors pick out products you may be curious about and provide the low-down on all their features. 

Next up, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo review. This digital-and-instant hybrid camera combines a classic look with cutting-edge features. If you’re looking for camera gear that will elevate your photos, either during your travels or at home, read on to see if this is the right choice for you, then head to Cathay Shop to purchase it.

A little bit of background

Launched in 2023, the Instax Mini Evo [brown] took home the Red Dot Design Award last year – and it’s no wonder why. While this camera might look old-school, it’s anything but. Built for contemporary creatives, it includes 10 film filters, such as monochrome and sepia, as well as 10 lens filters including fisheye and light leak. You can mix and match these effects for a total of 100 unique combinations. 

In addition to playing with filters, you can go back to basics, adjusting exposure and white balance according to the environment. Other features include enabling or disabling flash, switching to macro mode for close-ups, and activating the self-timer for group shots. 

If you need more proof that this camera is built for modern needs, note the selfie mirror – a small reflective square next to the camera lens which allows you to check whether the whole squad is in frame before hitting the shutter. And there are not one but two shutter buttons, making it easy to take both landscape and portrait shots.

For the full experience, download the free Instax Mini Evo app, which enables you to save camera-printed photos to your phone, print out photos from your smartphone on the camera, and use your phone as a remote shutter button.

First impressions 

With its brown faux-leather exterior, this camera’s vintage aesthetic instantly makes it stand out. Not only does it look sophisticated, it also comes with practical add-ons including a handy shoulder strap and USB charging cable. Controls are intuitive to use, and with the Evo’s wide range of filters, there’s plenty of room for creative expression. The camera works best under direct sunlight, capturing some truly stunning, vivid images, though quality suffers slightly in darker conditions like dimly lit restaurants.  

Unlike traditional instant cameras, where you take a shot and have no idea how it’ll turn out, the Instax Mini Evo offers the chance to check and re-take, only committing to printing on Instax Mini Film once you’ve perfected your composition. This function is ideal for avoiding blurry photos and blinking faces, while still resulting in a keepsake that feels in-the-moment. If you’re taking a group shot, you can even print out multiple copies for everyone.  

Another advantage of this camera is that it doubles as a smartphone printer. On days when I left it at home, I was still able to immortalise memories I’d captured on my phone. 

Any cons? 

While I had a lot of fun with this camera, I did have a few pitfalls. My biggest gripe with the device is that only printed images can be transferred to your phone via the app. For all other images taken with the camera, you’ll have to go down the traditional route: use a memory card reader to transfer photos to your computer and send them to your phone. Most of us are accustomed to the convenience of sending or posting pictures immediately after taking them, which you can’t do with this camera. 

It’s best to buy a memory card and card reader, as the camera’s internal memory can only store 45 images. Another essential the camera lacks is a lens cap – even when the camera is switched off, the lens is left vulnerable to scratches and collisions. 

Final thoughts  

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use camera that you’ll enjoy experimenting with alongside friends, this is it. Bring it along to your next party; everyone will love playing around with the different effects and getting to print out their favourite pics – oh, and taking killer selfies, of course.